“They had a lot of rules that got in the way," Kade said dismissively."Those are called laws, Kade," Bland said stiffly."Whatever they are," Kade continued unperturbed, "I decided I would enjoy myself more as a ...... freelancer.""Vigilante, you mean," Blane clarified."You say tomato......" Kade sighed in mock frustration.”

“Neither Blane nor I are your happily-ever-after princess. Blane will break your heart, and I’m the guy your mom warned you about. Don’t kid yourself about that.”

“You have to tell him ‘go toodles, Bits, go toodles for momma,’” I said, pitching my voice high in imitation, “or else he won’t go.” Blane looked at me. “I’m not doing that,” he said flatly. “But then he’ll go on the bed,” I protested. “How about I just point my gun at him,” he deadpanned.”

“It’s been six weeks. If Blane hasn’t sealed the deal by now, its open season.”

“He wa so difficult to read, it was frustrating. His thoughts and emotions always seemed to be kept very carefully under wraps. Whereas I felt like I was an open book.”

“His lips twitched at my defiance. He moved his face even nearer to mine, our lips inches apart. "You feel that?" he nearly whispered, his voice low and intent. "You feel that rage inside? Burning hot in the pit of your stomach?" Confused, I hesitantly nodded. What was he doing?"That's what's going to keep you alive, " he said. "Hold on to it. Fear will only sign your death warrant. Stay mad, princess.”

“It would be too easy to become infatuated with a man like him, and also decidedly unwise considering the female debris left in his wake.”